KUCHING: The 20th Nanyang University Global Alumni Reunion here on July 17-19 is set to be the biggest gathering in the event’s history with over 1,250 participants already signing up from around the world.
Registration opened on Jan 1 with an initial quota of 1,000 places managed through online registration, plus 100 reserved spots for Sarawak-based alumni.
The response proved extraordinary, with all places filled within just four days.
To accommodate the unprecedented demand, the the organising committee from the Sarawak Nanyang University Alumni Association has secured an additional hall at the Imperial Hotel.
The second venue, equipped with three television screens to broadcast proceedings, added 300 more places, bringing total capacity to 1,300 participants.
Accommodation has been secured at three hotels: the Imperial Hotel (270 rooms, serving as both activity venue and accommodation), Grand Margherita Hotel (250 rooms), and Riverside Majestic Hotel.
The reunion will commence with a Welcome Banquet on the evening of July 17, followed by the centrepiece Nanyang University Night on July 18 featuring approximately seven hours of cultural entertainment.
Except for three Dayak dance performances showcasing Sarawak’s indigenous culture, all programmes will be presented by Nanyang University alumni themselves.
Organisers have extended an invitation to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to be the guest of honour.
“We are making this considerable effort to host the reunion in Kuching once more in gratitude to the late Tan Lark Sye for founding Nanyang University,” said organising chairman David Wong Siew Chow here yesterday.
“We cherish the enthusiasm of Nanyang University alumni, and we will do our utmost to ensure everyone arrives happily and returns joyfully.
“We hope for encouragement and assistance from the state government, he added.
